Oklahoma

Meet Oklahoma, a rare electro-mechanical pinball machine from 1944, produced by United Manufacturing Company of Chicago as a conversion of Exhibit's 1940 game 'Leader.' It was designed with an operator option to choose between regular (novelty play) or free-play operation, allowing players to pay just five cents to play with up to five balls.

Key gameplay features of Oklahoma include its 12 passive bumpers and one kick-out hole. Players would aim to hit these targets while navigating the ball through a compact playfield. What makes this machine notable is its ability to accommodate low-cost, high-volume play, making it an accessible form of entertainment during wartime America. The electro-mechanical design showcases the early development of pinball's core mechanics.

Oklahoma's design and art are characteristic of 1940s pinball machines. Its compact playfield and simple artwork may seem unassuming at first glance, but as a wartime-era conversion it offers a window into how manufacturers reused existing hardware under material shortages. Unfortunately, little is known about its designer or any specific trivia surrounding its creation. Nonetheless, for enthusiasts, Oklahoma offers a glimpse into the early days of pinball's growth and development, making it an interesting addition to any collection.